If you’re familiar with modern diets, then you might have already heard that warm beverages are an essential ally in our battle against pesky extra pounds. After all, the meal plans that don’t recommend some sort of cleansing herbal tea are considerably fewer than those that do. But did you know that similar results can be achieved by drinking plain warm water?
For example, Exercise Bikes Expert recommends drinking two glasses of warm water every morning before working out. This support weight loss by stimulating the body to flush out toxins and burn calories at an accelerated pace. But the beverage has even more health benefits than you’d think. Here are the five most notable ones.
1. Supports digestion
According to Medical Daily, the number one benefit of drinking warm water in the morning is represented by the fact that it promotes the digestive process. Liquids are usually very efficient in breaking down the food in our stomachs and flushing out toxins from the body, and warm water does that even faster than its cold or room temperature counterparts.
In fact, cold water actually hardens the oils present in foods, which creates a buildup of fat in the intestines. For this reason, drinking it warm is recommended. Thus, instead of starting your day with hot coffee or tea, why not give plain old water a try? Ingest it at the same temperature you would other matutinal beverages, and your health will improve in no time at all.
2. Relieves constipation
Unfortunately, many people nowadays have struggled with the unpleasant effects of constipation at least once in their life. Fortunately, one of the most effective treatments for it can be found right in the comfort of your home. Because warm water aids with food digestion, nutrient absorption, and toxin removal, it is also a great natural remedy for this discomfort.
By drinking it on an empty stomach after you wake up, your bowel movements will be stimulated. What is more, the entire digestive tract will be properly lubricated, which eases the passing of waste. This alleviates the pain and bloating caused by the previous blockage. Therefore, if you don’t want to dread going to the toilet anymore, try this easy cure.
3. Improves circulation
As you may already know by now, balmy baths help arteries and veins expand and carry more blood, which improves the function of the circulatory system. A similar effect is triggered when drinking warm water, as the liquid’s temperature has a chance to work from the inside out, rather than the other way around.
When you have a healthy blood flow, blood pressure also decreases to normal levels. This promotes cardiovascular health, diminishing the risk of heart disease and strokes. As a bonus, you will feel less stressed, which is a step further towards leading a peaceful life focused on wellbeing, relaxation, and happiness.
4. Alleviates pain
While we’re on the topic of locally applied warm water, it’s worth mentioning that bottles filled with it have always been considered as a quick and accessible remedy to alleviate menstrual pain. And yet again, similar soothing results can be achieved by drinking two cups of it, especially in the morning when all the overnight tension has the chance to explode.
In addition, not only women can benefit from the analgesic properties of warm water. Because its temperature stimulates capillaries and relaxes the muscles, it is an efficient solution for just about any type of cramps or aches. Still, don’t expect it to be a miracle worker. If your pain is severe, you need to schedule an appointment with a doctor and find out what’s wrong.
5. Decongests airways
It’s no secret that the steam of hot water is efficient during inhalations, as it decongests airways and helps with mucus removal. If you are not a fan of breathing in stuffy, balmy vapours, you can also try drinking a few cups of warm water in the morning, when all the gloopy secretions have gathered in your nose and throat over the course of the night.
By warming up the membranes in the neck and upper torso, the liquid lubricates the oesophagus and thins the mucus. This eases excretion and soothes pain as well. Of course, it should not be used in lieu of medicine when you have the flu, but rather as a companion to it. Still, if you are prone to matutinal congestion due to seasonal allergies, it’s worth considering.
The health benefits of warm water pertain to a lot more than just mere weight loss. It supports digestion and relieves constipation, which prompts a smoother overall bodily function. What is more, circulation is improved, and along with it comes much-needed pain relief. Plus, if you’re prone to allergies and mucus buildup, it’s your best friend. And it’s completely safe as well, so why not give it a go?
If you enjoyed this post, feel free to share it with your friends and family. After all, sharing is caring!
Author: Luke Mitchell
Luke Mitchell of Exercise Bikes Expert. Luke is an MS Undergraduate in Sports Journalism and an independent fitness trainer. You can find more of his written work on Facebook and Twitter.